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Charred Wood Cladding and Expansive Glass Integrate with Nature in a Multi-Functional Community Space

Authors:
EDGAR MANUEL NAVA AYALA, RICARDO ARTURO HERNANDEZ PACHECO, RODRIGO SALVADOR SANCHEZ, OSMAR Ortiz Martine
Charred Wood Cladding and Expansive Glass Integrate with Nature in a Multi-Functional Community Space

Project in-detail

Charred wood cladding envelops a structure with expansive glass elements, creating a seamless interaction with the surrounding landscape while serving as a multi-functional community space focused on well-being and connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles create a fire-resistant exterior that integrates seamlessly with the environment.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural stability while reducing the building's carbon footprint.
03
Expansive glass elements enhance natural lighting and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
04
A bent A-frame design allows for efficient rainwater collection and management.
05
Native plant landscaping promotes biodiversity and creates a tranquil outdoor experience.

### Overview

Located in Layvia, the design project responds to the region's mountainous landscape and ecological context while addressing contemporary challenges such as urbanization and the need for restorative environments. The intent is to establish a model of architecture that reconciles human activities with environmental stewardship, fostering spaces for relaxation and reflection.

### Spatial Strategy and User-Focused Design

The architectural layout is organized to enhance flow and accessibility, facilitating community interaction while providing areas for personal retreat. Common areas on the ground floor include an open lobby, kitchen, and dining spaces that encourage social engagement. Additionally, private rooms are strategically positioned to maintain privacy while offering opportunities for contemplation. The first floor features multifunctional event halls and terraces that adapt to various activities, ranging from communal gatherings to individual retreats.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The project utilizes a thoughtful selection of materials aimed at durability and environmental responsibility. A natural stone façade connects the structure to its surroundings, while expansive glass windows invite ample natural light and vistas of the landscape, merging interior and exterior experiences. Concrete serves as the primary material for structural elements, providing longevity, while wood is incorporated in interior spaces to introduce warmth. The landscape design features native plant species that enhance biodiversity and promote ecological balance, with paths and seating areas encouraging engagement with nature. Renewable materials and environmentally conscious systems, such as rainwater harvesting and solar energy integration, further underscore the commitment to sustainability.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
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